Bono Calls for Netanyahu Resignation at Ivors 2025

At the 2025 Ivor Novello Awards in London, U2 became the first Irish act to receive the Fellowship of the Ivors Academy, with Bono using the event to call for peace in the Israel-Gaza conflict. In his acceptance speech, Bono condemned both Hamas—urging them to release hostages and stop the war—and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asking for Israel to be 'released' from his and far-right fundamentalists' influence. He emphasized the importance of believing in peace and called for protection of aid workers. Bono’s remarks represent his first public criticism of Netanyahu since the Gaza war began in October 2023 and align with recent criticism from Western leaders over Israel’s actions in Gaza. The band performed 'Sunday Bloody Sunday,' underscoring their message about the costs of conflict. Bono concluded by lamenting the cycle of revenge and appealing for forgiveness amid ongoing human suffering.